CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Bret Bielema said Illinois football hit the "trifecta" ahead of Saturday's preseason camp session. Day 6 of camp was the team's first day in full pads, as well as the longest and hottest practice thus far.
"I know the guys are pumped," Bielema said. "Had a couple guys with some injuries pop up this week. Getting some guys back. Excited that on Monday we'll get some guys back into practice."
There's an understanding that players will need treatment in some capacity over the course of a long season. During preseason camp, every day workouts come with necessary risks that prepare players in every position for the physical demands of several games.
As a result, Bielema and the rest of his coaching staff have an important relationship with trainers, nutritionists, and the recovery team with Illinois football. There's a consistent flow of information to determine the health status of a player.
"We taught the entire team, offensively and defensively, all the aspects of recovery," Bielema said. "From nutrition and hydration, to the recovery tubs, to the hyperbaric chambers, all the things that are at their hands for them to use in their down time."
Coach B made note that while performing sweat and hydration tests with players may not be the most convenient thing for the student-athletes, it's an important element to understand how far you can push someone to perform without going over the limit.
"The reason we inconvenience [a player] is to make you better," Bielema adds.
During sessions on hotter days, the Illini have a "cool zone" set aside in a shaded environment where players can briefly break from the heat and sun. Their practice schedule incorporates various 5-minute breaks throughout the session to simulate the transition between quarters during a game.
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